Booz Allen Hamilton wins $23 million Air Force tech contract

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ROME, N.Y — Booz Allen Hamilton Inc. was recently awarded a $23.4 million contract from the U.S. Air Force for an ORACL software/hardware prototype, reports,

New York cheese production rises in July compared to prior month

Energy, Environment & Sustainability, Subscriber Only

New York plants produced just under 74 million pounds of cheese (excluding cottage cheese) in July of this year, up 2.2 percent from 72.4 million pounds in June, the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) recently reported. However, New York cheese production was down 4.4 percent from nearly 77.4 million pounds in July 2024. U.S.

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Prevention Network has a new main office and a new logo

Health Care, Nonprofits, Subscriber Only

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — The Prevention Network has implemented some recent key changes, including a move to a new headquarters in Syracuse and a new logo as well. Prevention Network describes itself as “one of Central New York’s most trusted voices in substance misuse prevention, a steadfast advocate for wellness, and a vital resource for community

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Upstate Medical University partners with SUNY Canton on 4+3 DPT degree

Health Care, Education & Training, New York News, Nonprofits, North Country, Subscriber Only

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Upstate Medical University in Syracuse has a new affiliation agreement with SUNY Canton in St. Lawrence County for students who want to earn a doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degree. The new 4+3 DPT early-assurance program allows qualified high-school seniors the chance to complete their undergraduate education at SUNY Canton and guarantees

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The new 4+3 DPT early-assurance program allows qualified high-school seniors the chance to complete their undergraduate education at SUNY Canton and guarantees placement in Upstate’s curriculum, per the Upstate announcement.

“The agreement strengthens our commitment to preparing students for high-demand careers in healthcare fields,” Michele Snyder, dean of science, health and criminal justice at SUNY Canton, said in the Upstate announcement. “It builds on the established advantages of our career-focused programs while offering students a defined trajectory to earn their advanced degree.”

Under the pact, students accepted into the program will first earn an associate in applied science in the physical therapist assistant (PTA) program, followed by the bachelor of technology in health and fitness promotion program at SUNY Canton. Qualified students will then continue with their graduate studies at Upstate, culminating in earning their DPT degree.

Representatives from both campuses indicated that “high-paying, in-demand” careers await graduates. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics lists median pay for physical therapists at $101,020 per year, and the job outlook is “growing at a much faster-than-average pace,” the universities said.

To secure an interview for admission into the selective program, students should have a high-school GPA of 90 percent or higher (recommended), four years of science and math, and eight hours of observational experience with a physical therapist.

To join the program, high-school seniors must simultaneously apply to both SUNY Canton and Upstate. Upstate’s enrollment for the new the 4+3 DPT early-assurance program will run from Sept. 1, 2025 to Feb. 1, 2026.

To apply, visit the university’s Doctor of Physical Therapy – 4+3 Early Assurance Program website. SUNY Canton’s admission process uses the SUNY application, Upstate said.

Cooley Group, which operates Syracuse and Utica offices, has a new owner

Small Business, Employee Benefits & Human Resources, Mohawk Valley, New York News, Sports, Entertainment & Tourism, Subscriber Only

PITTSFORD, N.Y. — Its name will remain the same, but a Pittsford–based provider of customized promotional, print, and fulfillment services that has Syracuse and Utica offices is now under new ownership. Grossman Marketing Group of Woburn, Massachusetts, says it has acquired Cooley Group, per a late July company announcement. It didn’t include any financial terms

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Grossman Marketing Group of Woburn, Massachusetts, says it has acquired Cooley Group, per a late July company announcement. It didn’t include any financial terms of the acquisition deal.

Founded in 1910 by Maxwell B. Grossman, Grossman Marketing Group is a fourth-generation, family-owned company specializing in branded merchandise, print, and marketing solutions. Founded in 1945, Cooley Group is provider of promotional products, print and fulfillment dating back more than 75 years, per the Grossman announcement.

Cooley Group will continue to operate under its name as a division of Grossman Marketing Group, with offices in Rochester, Syracuse, Utica, Albany, and the Hudson Valley, and its full team staying in place.

Together, Cooley and Grossman “strengthen their position as a local, service-oriented company with the capabilities and reach to deliver branded solutions for clients across the country and around the world,” per the announcement.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Cooley Group to the Grossman family,” David Grossman, co-president of Grossman Marketing Group, said. “Both companies share the belief that the greatest asset we have is the people who walk through our doors every day. This shared commitment to our teams, our clients, our communities, and sustainability is exactly why this partnership makes sense.”

Grossman went on to say that clients of Cooley Group will benefit from an expanded range of creative services, branded merchandise, warehousing, fulfillment, and technology products. They include SwagCycle, Grossman Marketing Group’s program for “responsibly managing the lifecycle” of branded merchandise.

To date, SwagCycle has facilitated more than $11 million in charitable donations and kept millions of products out of landfills by giving branded items a “second life through reuse, recycling, or donation.”

Grossman Marketing Group’s clients include the Boston Bruins, Athenahealth, and Cognizant, according to its website.

“For 80 years, Cooley Group has helped clients showcase their brands while staying true to our local roots,” Phil Yawman, president of Cooley Group, said in the announcement. “To keep growing amid changing client needs, we knew we needed access to more resources like Grossman’s award-winning technology, robust e-commerce capabilities, global logistics infrastructure, and proven sustainability leadership. Joining forces with Grossman ensures our people, culture, and clients remain at the center of everything we do.”

Wolfspeed reduces debt, emerges from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection

Manufacturing & Engineering, Employee Benefits & Human Resources, Mohawk Valley, New York News, Subscriber Only, Technology

Wolfspeed, Inc. (NYSE: WOLF), a company specializing in silicon-carbide technologies, has completed its financial-restructuring process, and on Sept. 29 announced its emergence from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Based in Durham, North Carolina, Wolfspeed operates a plant in Marcy, in Oneida County. Through the restructuring process, the chipmaker has reduced its total debt by about 70

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Based in Durham, North Carolina, Wolfspeed operates a plant in Marcy, in Oneida County.

Through the restructuring process, the chipmaker has reduced its total debt by about 70 percent, with maturities extended to 2030, and lowered its annual cash-interest expense by about 60 percent, per Wolfspeed’s announcement. In addition, the company believes that it “maintains ample liquidity” to continue supplying customers with leading silicon-carbide products.

With a self-funded business plan supported by free cash-flow generation, Wolfspeed says it is “well positioned to leverage its vertically-integrated 200mm manufacturing footprint — underpinned by a secure and scalable U.S.-based supply chain — to drive sustainable growth.”

“Wolfspeed has emerged from its expedited restructuring process, marking the beginning of a new era, which we are entering with new energy and a renewed commitment to the growth mindset and entrepreneurial spirit that have powered Wolfspeed since its inception,” Robert Feurle, CEO of Wolfspeed, said in the company’s announcement. “As we enter this new era, we do so with much improved financial stability, a scaled, greenfield and vertically integrated 200mm facility footprint, and our large capital deployment behind us.”

In the process of emerging from bankruptcy, Wolfspeed said it canceled and retired its old common stock (totaling about 156.5 million shares), and issued more than 25.8 million shares of new common stock. The company also converted from a North Carolina corporation to a Delaware corporation and adopted new bylaws, according to its Sept. 30 Form 8-K filing with the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission.

Mohawk Valley EDGE reaction

In a separate statement, Mohawk Valley EDGE said that Wolfspeed had informed the Rome–based economic-development organization back on June 22 that it intended to enter into a restructuring-support agreement with key lenders. The agreement helped the company reduce its debt load.

Mohawk Valley EDGE went on to say that throughout this process, Wolfspeed has “remained fully committed” to its local obligations and partnerships, including those with the Oneida County Industrial Development Agency (OCIDA) and Mohawk Valley EDGE.

“The Mohawk Valley has faced its share of challenges over the years — from economic shifts to global disruptions — but our community has always responded with resilience, collaboration, and a shared commitment to progress,” Shawna Papale, president of Mohawk Valley EDGE, said in its statement. “Wolfspeed’s emergence from bankruptcy is a testament to that same spirit of perseverance and partnership.”

New state law requires quick reporting of cybersecurity, ransomware incidents

Law, Accounting & Taxes, New York News, Small Business, Subscriber Only, Technology

ALBANY, N.Y. — A new state law is now effect that requires all municipal corporations and public authorities to report cybersecurity incidents within 72 hours and ransomware payments within 24 hours to the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES). Within 30 days of making a ransomware payment, the victim organization

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Within 30 days of making a ransomware payment, the victim organization must provide the payment amount, a justification for why it was necessary, and an explanation of the diligence performed to ensure the payment was lawful. The information will improve the state’s ability to address cybersecurity threats, safeguard critical infrastructure, and “tackle the scourge of ransomware,” the office of Gov. Kathy Hochul said.

Hochul first announced the proposed legislation during her 2025 State of the State address.

The governor signed the bill into law on June 27 after virtually convening local-government officials to discuss ongoing security efforts. The legislation also mandates annual cybersecurity-awareness training for government employees across New York state and sets data-protection standards for state-maintained information systems. On July 28, Hochul announced the law was in effect.

“This legislation strengthens our response and provides our state’s Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services the necessary information to handle reports of attacks and keep New Yorkers safe,” the governor said in the announcement.

Municipal corporations and public authorities may report cybersecurity incidents, notice of ransomware payments, and justification for ransomware payments to DHSES through a web portal available at: https://www.dhses.ny.gov/.

Local governments, non-executive agencies, and state authorities should still call the DHSES Cyber Incident Response Team hotline at 1-844-OCT-CIRT (1-844-628-2478) if they need immediate cyber-incident response support.

“New York State is leading the way in cybersecurity threat and ransomware reporting,” Jackie Bray, commissioner of the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, said. “Now that the system is operational, our teams will be better armed to protect important infrastructure and address ransomware attacks.”

“With the operationalization of this landmark legislation, New York is making a clear statement that we are stronger together, enabling coordinated response and information sharing, and serving as a blueprint for the nation,” Colin Ahern, chief cyber officer of New York State, said.

Cybersecurity remains a concern for small businesses

Banks & Credit Unions, Small Business, Subscriber Only, Technology

Cybersecurity continues to be a key issue for small-business owners, with 41 percent citing payment fraud as their top concern, followed by phishing and email scams (27 percent) and identity theft (26 percent). It’s one of several topics addressed in a survey from Cleveland, Ohio–based KeyBank (NYSE: KEY) released on Sept. 16. Overall, KeyBank’s 2025

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It’s one of several topics addressed in a survey from Cleveland, Ohio–based KeyBank (NYSE: KEY) released on Sept. 16.

Overall, KeyBank’s 2025 Small Business Survey found that about one in four (23 percent) small-business owners are stuck in survival mode and aren’t focused on long-term planning. Additionally, almost half (46 percent) of proprietors of small firms feel their performance fell short of expectations in 2025.

Still, 40 percent of small-business owners are cautiously planning ahead for their businesses’ futures. Another 46 percent say they are certain they could cover one month of operating expenses if an emergency arose, down just slightly from KeyBank’s Fall 2024 Small Business Survey (49 percent), “suggesting that they are preparing for stability and sustainability despite uncertainties.”

Even with an extra cushion of expenses saved, half (50 percent) of small-business owners say their top concern is inflation and rising costs — far outpacing factors like competition (33 percent), cash flow (25 percent), and labor shortages and hiring challenges (22 percent). In fact, a quarter (25 percent) of small-business owners are increasing prices for customers in light of recent tariffs and rising costs.

“Navigating the current economic environment has proven to be no small feat for small business owners,” Mike Walters, president of business banking at KeyBank, said in the announcement. “It’s reassuring to see small business owners’ passion and perseverance, despite the challenges that have come their way. Their ability to adapt — whether through tightening expenses, finding new ways to serve customers, or preparing for regulatory shifts — shows the grit and creativity at the heart of the small business community. It’s that determination that allows them to build the foundation needed for long-term growth.”

Preparing for what’s ahead

Looking ahead to 2026, business owners are prioritizing the strategies, resources, and self-care that will help shape their resilience, KeyBank said.

When it comes to seeking professional advice, 21 percent of small-business owners agree they’d feel more secure by having regular conversations with their business bankers, with many looking for guidance on cash flow (33 percent), financial planning (33 percent), and tax strategy (31 percent).

As for maintaining personal resilience, 30 percent of small-business owners say they feel more resilient with a good night’s sleep — ensuring they balance daily self-care needs with long-term business planning.

“Small business owners are proving that resilience is more than just surviving challenges; it’s about planning ahead, leaning on trusted advisors, and making sure they have the clarity and confidence to move forward,” Walters said.

Methodology

This survey was conducted online with Survey Monkey, including 2,144 respondents — ages 18-99, from across the U.S., who own or operate a small-to-medium size business with an annual gross revenue of less than $10 million — completed the survey in July.

Endicott–based IT firm TechMD is now under new ownership

Small Business, Employee Benefits & Human Resources, Southern Tier, Subscriber Only, Technology

ENDICOTT, N.Y. — TechMD, an Endicott–based information-technology (IT) services firm that operates New York offices in DeWitt and Ithaca, is now under new ownership. Integris, which is based in Cranbury Township, New Jersey, acquired TechMD, along with its security division, 1nteger Security, per a mid-June announcement on the Integris website. It didn’t include any financial

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ENDICOTT, N.Y. — TechMD, an Endicott–based information-technology (IT) services firm that operates New York offices in DeWitt and Ithaca, is now under new ownership.

Integris, which is based in Cranbury Township, New Jersey, acquired TechMD, along with its security division, 1nteger Security, per a mid-June announcement on the Integris website. It didn’t include any financial terms of the acquisition agreement.

Integris describes itself as a “national leader in future-ready managed services,” backed by Toronto, Ontario–based OMERS Private Equity.

The acquired company was founded in 1986 as ICS and rebranded to TechMD in 2023. Besides its Northeast locations, TechMD also has a “strong presence in California,” Integris said.

Following the acquisition, TechMD appears to be operating under the Integris name. A web search of the name TechMD redirects users to the Integris website.

Guggenheim Securities, LLC acted as exclusive financial advisor to TechMD, Integris noted.

The acquisition is Integris’ largest to date and “signifies the next pivotal milestone” in the firm’s “continued evolution” by expanding the company’s products and services that “drive digital maturity” for small to midsize businesses.

“Our mission has been to develop a technology company that is future-ready and forward-thinking with a strong sense of duty toward the customer experience, and we believe Integris is the perfect representation of this direction,” Kevin Blake, president and CEO of TechMD, said in the Integris announcement. “Integris and its leadership are in the right position to elevate our combined experience and technology solutions to the next level, and we’re thrilled to be joining their team.”

Blake now serves as an advisory board member of the Integris board of directors, per the Integris website.

TechMD says it’s been helping small to midsize businesses and organizations power their success through technology for more than 20 years. This extensive knowledge and expertise in providing IT managed services, cybersecurity services, technical services, cloud solutions and product procurement will assist in advancing Integris’ vision for the future of the industry.

“Every acquisition we make is a strategic step toward our vision of transforming Integris into a smarter, faster, and more transformative digital powerhouse,” Glenn Mathis, newly appointed CEO, and previous president and COO, of Integris, said. “By bringing like-minded teams and capabilities into the Integris family, we’re not just expanding our footprint — we’re deepening our ability to elevate the customer experience. Together, we will deliver a high-impact platform that’s more responsive, more secure, and more aligned with the real needs of our clients.”

This pivotal moment in Integris’ history also marks the progression of leadership for the company. After founding and leading the company since its inception, Rashaad Bajwa is transitioning from CEO to executive chairman of the Integris board.

“It has been the privilege of my life to help build Integris into what it is today, however, I cannot think of a more perfect fit for the future of Integris than Glenn,” said Bajwa. “Our industry is undergoing exciting changes, with Integris at the forefront of this innovative charge, and with Glenn’s powerful thought leadership on how AI, automation and data will transform the MSP of the future, now is the perfect time for him to take over the reigns as CEO and for me to help support Integris from my position on the Board.”

Tech Valley Cybersecurity Symposium set for Schenectady on Oct. 14

Technology, Subscriber Only

SCHENECTADY — The 4th annual Tech Valley Cybersecurity Symposium is set for Oct. 14 at Rivers Casino & Resort in Schenectady. LogicalNet — a digital security provider serving the Capital Region for more than 30 years — announced the event Sept. 17. The Cybersecurity Symposium is focused on giving business leaders the tools and insights

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SCHENECTADY — The 4th annual Tech Valley Cybersecurity Symposium is set for Oct. 14 at Rivers Casino & Resort in Schenectady.

LogicalNet — a digital security provider serving the Capital Region for more than 30 years — announced the event Sept. 17.

The Cybersecurity Symposium is focused on giving business leaders the tools and insights to improve their security “without being distracted by sales pitches.”

“Cybersecurity is essential for every business, no matter the size or specialty of the company. With both scams and regulations on the rise, it’s never been more important to protect your company organization,” Tush Nikollaj, CEO of LogicalNet, said in the announcement. “Our Symposium offers the opportunity to connect with fellow leaders and develop a digital security plan away from any distractions that a typical event with a sales and marketing component may have.”

The symposium will include leaders and executives from across multiple sectors who will provide attendees with education, practical advice, actionable insights, and best-practice strategies to protect their businesses. The sectors include health care, nonprofits, banking, higher education, manufacturing, and finance.

Though this event is free, those who wish to attend must be approved. LogicalNet encourages anyone in an executive level or decision-making position to register for attendance at this web page: https://logical.net/cybersecurity-symposium/2025-tech-valley-cybersecurity-symposium/.

Keynote speaker

Jason Manar, the chief information security officer of Kaseya, is this year’s keynote speaker. Miami, Florida–based Kaseya is a global provider of AI (artificial intelligence)-powered cybersecurity and information-technology (IT) management software for IT firms and small to mid-size businesses.

Prior to his role at Kaseya, Manar worked for the FBI as the assistant special agent in charge of cyber, counterintelligence, intelligence, and the languages service program at the San Diego office.

Other prominent speakers at the Cybersecurity Symposium will include Anna Mercado Clark, partner and chief information security officer at Buffalo–based Phillips Lytle LLP; Chant Vartanian, founder and CEO of Los Angeles, California–based M-Theory Group; and Paul Mazzucco, chief information security officer at St. Louis, Missouri–based TierPoint.

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